Welcome to San Francisco! The land of dreamers, hippies, and the world’s most innovative tech pioneers. You’ll find never-ending enjoyment in the 7x7 mile Californian peninsula. Which, exciting as it sounds, means you can’t cover it all in a quick break. Instead, follow this ultimate guide to visiting San Francisco on a weekend.

You’ll see some major landmarks, hit up lesser-known gems, and enjoy some delightfully tasty restaurants too. It’s the best of San Francisco. And when you return, you can see the rest. Now, go pack. Prepare for anything and everything. San Francisco has a surprise or two around every corner.

First, let’s have a quick discussion about the San Franciscan weather. Because it’s a weird one. San Francisco is subject to micro-climates, where the weather changes quite dramatically within a small area. In one day, you can go from boiling hot to freezing cold. Hell, it’s possible from one street to the next. For that reason, you must pack layers.

Oh, and fog is a real thing in San Francisco. It even has a name, Karl the Fog. And a funny Twitter profile too. The summer months tend to be the foggiest with highs in the morning and the evening. Be warned, it may obstruct your views. Climate is mild throughout the year.

This wonderful West Coast city is an ideal getaway destination for singles, couples, and families. The worth-seeing sites, enchanting views, beautiful streets, and outdoor dining make a great part of San Francisco to visit. Even if you’re not a fan of crowds, San Francisco has a few landmarks that you’ll definitely want to see even if you have to elbow a few ribs along the way.

While visiting the most instagrammable places in San Francisco, everyone finds their place. Here are few options you’ll want to consider. And remember, they can get crowded. If you don’t want to take your luggage or valuables with you, leave them at a safe and secure San Francisco luggage storage facility.

Here are a few fun things to do in San Francisco during your weekend getaway.

1. Golden Gate Bridge

Undoubtedly one of the most famous bridges in the world, the Golden Gate Bridge is an icon of the city. Among the historical landmarks in California, this suspension bridge connecting San Francisco to Marin County completed in 1937, is both beautiful and durable. It was made to face winds of more than 100 miles per hour. The pedestrian walk provides unique views of the beautiful Bay Area, and is one of the best vacation spots in the US.

The big red beast was opened to the public in 1937 and stretches nearly two miles across the waters to connect with Marin County.

If you want to cross the Golden Gate Bridge, you can walk across for free. Or you could do it quicker on a bike. Cyclists are allowed on the bridge’s pedestrian area until 3:30 pm on weekdays. Alternatively, if you want to marvel at the big ole bridge without actually having to cross it, head to Baker Beach where crashing waves and the bridge combine in one stunning vista.

2. Alcatraz Island

Alcatraz Island has been home to some of the world’s most notorious criminals. It’s seen eight brutal murders. And an untold number of other horrors… so naturally, the island and its infamous prison are among San Francisco’s most popular tourist attractions.

For that reason, booking ahead is a must. Last-minute Alcatraz tickets are available, but really you don’t want the hassle. Instead, the authorized concessioner, Alcatraz cruises, offers three different tours: a night tour, a day tour, and a behind the scenes tour.

All will give you a chance to experience a prisoner’s life on The Rock and to explore the world’s most famous cell house. A tour also includes the very necessary round-trip ferry.

3. Fisherman’s Wharf

Fisherman’s Wharf is pretty much a no-go for natives. And to be honest, I understand why. The waterfront neighborhood does attract lots of tourists. Lots. But, if you’re prepared for that, you can still have a wonderful day exploring.

You should head straight to Pier 39, where you’ll find the Aquarium of the Bay and a delightful herd of resident sea lions. After, enjoy eating some of the best crabs in San Francisco at Pier 39. Among the fun things to do in San Francisco, taste Clam Chowder, a soup based on potatoes, clams, onions and celery. The best thing is that in a lot of restaurants in USA serve it inside a bread.

Once you’ve seen the icons of the city, it’s time to go a bit deeper into San Francisco and get to its soul.

4. Twin Peaks

In the Summer of Love, 1967, San Francisco became the birthplace of the hippie movement. And the Haight-Ashbury neighborhood was its epicenter. While free love and tie-dye t-shirts are not as prevalent as they once were, the area still attracts those with a love of the counterculture.

Take an afternoon to explore Haight’s extravagant wonderfulness, dipping into vintage clothes stores, anarchist bookshops, and record emporiums. Along the way, look out for the incredible murals. Some of which depict former Haight residents including Jimi Hendrix and Janis Joplin. Finally, if you’re looking for a fun night, have a drink at one of Haight’s fun dive bars.

5. Golden Gate Park

At more than 1,000 acres, Golden Gate Park is absolutely ginormous. You could just relax in its open green spaces. But why not enjoy a morning of culture and tour a museum? I recommend the California Academy of Sciences. The world-famous science museum covers (pretty much) everything on earth and beyond with some genuinely stunning displays.

After, continue the cultural exploration at the Japanese Tea Gardens. There you can wander its highly manicured gardens and enjoy a traditional cuppa in the Tea House. Finally, head to the bison paddock to see mighty American bison wandering the fields.

6. Angel Island

San Francisco can get a bit, um, hectic. Which is, of course, why we love it. But, if you want to relax, some of the best camping in California can be found a short ferry ride away on Angel Island.

The largest natural island in the bay, Angel Island was once a military base and immigration station. But it’s now better known for its beautiful views of the San Francisco skyline. A visit is all about taking it easy. No all-night raves here. Just take gentle hikes along its nature trails and enjoy its gorgeous city views.

Remember, if you’re going to spend a weekend in San Francisco, you’ve got to be prepared for anything and everything. The city is full of wild surprises (and even wilder people).

To make the most of it, just go with the flow. Embrace the spirit of the city. And be safe. Trust me, you’ll have an unforgettable experience.